Local projects win big in REDC awards

Representatives from the Capital District pose after the third round of Regional Economic Development Council were awarded Wednesday, Dec. 11. The Capital District was awarded $82.8 million for projects.

continued  The Albany Institute of History and Art won three grants totaling $171,000, which will help renovated its facility and market its attractions.

The Institute was awarded $100,000 to conduct a restoration project at the Rice House and Rice House Annex. The buildings have a façade of yellow bricks with “unusually fine” mortar joints and an “elaborate embellished cornice,” and the project will prevent these elements from reaching a critical amount of deterioration. The remaining funds would be used for two marketing campaigns to attract visitors to “The Mystery of the Albany Mummies” exhibit.

The Palace Performing Arts Center received a $76,500 grant to convert to digital projection, which will allow the arts venue to accommodate specific technical needs of some live performances and allow for new film screening opportunities and festivals.

Tech Valley High School was awarded $1.5 million towards costs of relocating its facilities to leased space in the Zen Building at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering campus in Albany. The grant would go toward interior fit-up costs, which includes purchasing new equipment for its school and Children’s Museum.

Regulars of the Menands Farmers Market will be pleased with the $100,000 awarded to demolish an antiquated building and add additional space to the market. There will be 5,000 square foot additional constructed to the Capital City Produce Building and increase the amount of products offered.